Canada is set to close applications for temporary emergency visas available to Ukrainians fleeing Russian aggression on Saturday, but has not yet announced plans for long-term refuge.
Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine last year, Canada introduced the emergency visa as millions of people sought refuge from the conflict.
The visa allows an unlimited number of Ukrainians to work and study in Canada for three years while they determine their next steps. However, those who come to Canada with this visa are not granted refugee status and are considered temporary residents.
In March, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser extended the program as the war entered its second year. The extended application period will end on July 15.
As of July 1, over 1.1 million people have applied for the visa, with more than 800,000 visas already approved. However, only about 21% of visa holders have actually arrived in Canada.
Ukrainians who have already been granted the visa will still be allowed to come to Canada until the end of March 2024. Settlement services typically reserved for refugees and permanent residents have also been extended to Ukrainians with an emergency visa until the end of March 2025.
“We are waiting to hear what the government decides will be the new parameters for Ukrainians to come to Canada starting July 16,” said Ihor Michalchyshyn, executive director of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress. “There are still potentially some people who haven’t applied yet or whose situation may change and require temporary refuge.”
Last month, the immigration minister stated that Ukrainians could apply through traditional immigration streams while the government considers the best long-term plan.
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress has urged the government to allow open work permits for those applying to come to Canada and to provide support in terms of services and language.
Michalchyshyn has also called for prioritizing applications from Ukraine to expedite the process of bringing people to safety.
